Immunogen adherence inhibitor and method of making and using same

ABSTRACT

A microbial adherence inhibitor in the form of fowl egg antibodies is disclosed, along with the method of making it and methods of using it. The inhibitor functions by substantially preventing the attachment or adherence of colony-forming immunogens in the rumen and intestinal tracts of host food animals. The inhibitor is made by inoculating female birds with the immunogen, harvesting the eggs which contain antibodies to the immunogen, harvesting the eggs which contain antibodies to the immunogen, drying the egg contents and adding to the feed or water for the host animals. Dependent upon the particular immunogen with which the female bird is inoculated, the egg antibody is used to promote the growth of food animals by improving feed conversion rates by decreasing the waste of dietary protein caused by the presence of certain colony-forming organisms in the animals, and to substantially reduce or eliminate the incidence of illnesses caused by the presence of certain illness-causing colony-forming immunogens, such as  E. coli  0157:H7, in meat from food animals, and in other food stuffs.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] This invention is directed to microbial adherence inhibitor, inthe form of fowl egg antibodies, for substantially preventing theattachment or adherence of colony-forming immunogens or haptens in therumen and intestinal tract of host food animals, to the method ofproducing such adherence inhibitors, and to the methods of using suchinhibitors to: (1) promote the growth of food animals by improving feedconversion rates by decreasing the waste of dietary protein caused bythe presence of certain colony-forming protein-wasting organisms in foodanimals, and (2) to substantially reduce or eliminate the incidence ofillnesses caused by the presence of certain illness-causingcolony-forming immunogens or haptens in meat from food animals, whichare not themselves subjected to the targeted illness, and in other foodstuffs.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Common bacterial immunogens which cause dramatic decreases in ananimal's ability to utilize dietary protein include but are not limitedto Peptostreptococcus anaerobius, Clostridium aminophilum, andClostridium sticklandii. According to Russell (USDA-ARS, May 1993) theseorganisms, and others disclosed therein, have been collectivelyresponsible for wasting up to 25 percent of the protein in cattle diets.This is a loss of as much as $25 billion annually to cattle producersand is especially apparent in “grazing animals which are often deficientin protein, even though their protein intake appears to be adequate.” Asthe host consumes protein in the diet, these deleterious organismswastefully degrade the protein to ammonia which is converted to urea bythe liver and kidneys and thus lost to the host when excreted as urine.These deleterious organisms also compete with beneficial organisms whichthe host needs for the efficient utilization of ammonia. In addition,they need other beneficial organisms in the rumen for greater ammoniautilization.

[0003] The principal objective of the present invention is tosubstantially prevent the colonization of deleterious organisms such asP. anaerobius, C. sticklandii and C. aminophilum as well as the growthof such organisms in the rumen and the intestinal tracts of food animalsresulting in their substantial elimination from the animal by theadministration of the fowl egg antibody to the specific organisms.

[0004] Common bacterial immunogens which cause food borne illness inhumans include E. coli, Listeria, Salmonella and Campylobacter, all ofwhich produce flu-like symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrheaand/or fever, and in some cases causes kidney damage or death. In recentyears foodstuffs contaminated with these bacteria have causedgastrointestinal distress in tens or hundreds of thousands of people andthe recall and destruction of millions of pounds of food. The resultingeconomic loss has been staggering. Especially daunting as a publichealth threat has been E. coli 0157:H7, a pathogenic strain of thecommon gut bacterium, first identified in 1982. The bacteria are carriedin the intestinal tracts of food animals and expelled in their feces.From there, the bacteria enter the food supply, not only in the meat ofthose animals, but foods such as milk, fruit juices, lettuce, alfalfasprouts, radishes and others.

[0005] Haptens are partial or incomplete immunogens such as certaintoxins, which cannot by themselves cause antibody formation but arecapable of combining with specific antibodies. Such haptens may includebacterial toxin, yeast mold toxin, viruses, parasite toxins, algaetoxins, etc.

[0006] Other colony-forming organisms include Actinomycetes,Streptococcus, Bacteriodes such as B. ruminicola, Crytococcus and yeastmolds.

[0007] Another principal object of the present invention is tosubstantially prevent the adherence of immunogens, such as E. coli0157:H7, or haptens, and the colonization and growth of such immunogensor haptens in the rumen or intestinal tracts of food animals, andsubstantial elimination of the immunogen or hapten from the feces of theanimals, by the administration to the animals of fowl egg antibody tothe specific immunogen or hapten.

PRIOR ART

[0008] The production of avian egg antibody for the diagnosis ortreatment of specific conditions has been known. The production of avianegg antibody for the inhibition of organisms, specifically thecolonization of non-illness-causing protein-wasting organisms, and theadherence and colonization of illness-causing immunogens is notsuggested.

[0009] Representative prior art patents include the following:

[0010] Polson, U.S. Pat. No. 4,550,019

[0011] Stolle et al, U.S. Pat. No. 4,748,018

[0012] Tokoro, U.S. Pat. No. 5,080,895

[0013] Carroll, U.S. Pat. No. 5,196,193

[0014] Lee, U.S. Pat. No. 5,367,054

[0015] Coleman, U.S. Pat. No. 5,585,098

[0016] Stolle et al, U.S. Pat. No. 5,753,268

[0017] Raun, U.S. Pat. No. 3,794,732, discusses the uses of polyesterantibiotics in ruminant rations to improve the utilization of feed inruminant animals. This specifically addresses the use of antibiotics inruminant animals as growth promotants.

[0018] Raun, U.S. Pat. No. 3,947,836, discusses the use of specificantibiotic compounds for ruminant feed utilization improvement when giveorally to the animal. Specifically, the animal develops rumen functionwhere more propionates in relation to acetates are produced thusimproving feed utilization.

[0019] Ivy et al, U.S. Pat. No. 4,933,364, discusses an alternativeprocess for promoting growth and feed efficiency of food producingmammals. They propose the use of zinc antibiotic that can be added ininsoluble form to create a zinc antibiotic complex which enhances feedefficiency of food producing mammals. They reference two U.S. Pat. Nos.3,501,568 and 3,794,732, that cover monensin in great detail.

[0020] Other references on the use of additives such as monensin havementioned the need for wise application of these materials because theycan be toxic to some animals, such as horses. These antibiotics, whichare not approved for use in dairy cows, must be administered carefully.In addition, feed intake is initially reduced as monensin cannot beadded to molasses based supplements which are classic additives tocattle fees. (Pate, F., “Ionophores Do Not Appear To Work In MolassesSupplements”, ONA Reports, November, 1966, 2 pages, Florida Cattlemanand Livestock Journal; Lona, R. P. et al, J. Anim. Sci. 75(1):2571-2579,1979.)

[0021] Polson, U.S. Pat. No. 4,550,019, is directed to the manufactureand use of fowl egg yolk antibodies for making immunologicalpreparations for the passive immunizations of animals, including humans,as immuno reagents for immunosorbitive processes and in particular forquantitative analytical tests, especially micro assays for diagnostic,pathological, forensic and pharmacokinectic investigations.

[0022] Stolle et al, U.S. Pat. No. 4,748,018, is directed to a method ofpassive immunization of mammals using avian egg yolk antibody againstany of a variety of antigens using various methods of administrationunder various conditions and using various compositions incorporatingthe antibody, after first developing in the mammal a tolerance for theantibody.

[0023] Tokoro, U.S. Pat. No. 5,080,895, is directed to a specificantibody containing substance from eggs and method of production and usethereof for the treatment of infectious or other diseases, and asadditives in food for livestock and poultry, cosmetics, and medicines,and in the field of serodiagnosis. Although not explicitly stated, it isapparent that the use of the egg antibody in feeds is to provide an easymeans of oral administration of the antibody for the treatment ofintestinal infections in livestock or poultry.

[0024] Carroll, U.S. Pat. No. 5,196,193, and divisional U.S. Pat. No.5,443,976, are directed to anti-venom compositions containing horseantibody or avian egg yolk antibody for neutralizing snake, spider,scorpion or jelly fish venom.

[0025] U.S. Pat. No. 5,367,054, is directed to methods for large scalepurification of egg immunoglobulin for the treatment of infections.

[0026] Coleman, U.S. Pat. No. 5,585,098, is directed to a method of oraladministration of chicken yolk immunoglobulins to lower somatic cellcount in the milk of lactating ruminants.

[0027] Stolle et al, U.S. Pat. No. 5,753,268, is directed to ananti-cholesterolemic egg vaccine and method for production and use as adietary supplement for the treatment of vascular disorders in humans andother animals.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0028] Broadly stated this invention is directed to a method for theproduction of a microbial adherence inhibitor for administration to hostfood animals to substantially prevent the adherence of colony-formingimmunogens or haptens in the rumen and/or intestinal tracts of the foodanimals by first inoculating female birds, in or about to reach theiregg laying age, with the particular target immunogen. Then, after aperiod of time sufficient to permit the production in the bird ofantibody to the targeted immunogen, the eggs laid by the birds areharvested. The total antibody-containing contents of the eggs areseparated from the shells and dried. The egg contents may be dried on afeed extender or carrier material. The dried separated egg antibodyadherence inhibiting material may be stored or shipped for use whenneeded.

[0029] The target immunogen with which the bird is inoculated dependsupon the anticipated use of the inhibitor, a non-disease-causingprotein-wasting organism where boosting of feed efficiency is theobjective, and a targeted disease-causing organism where the objectiveis the substantial reduction or elimination of illnesses.

[0030] The dried egg contents incorporating the antibody specific to thetargeted immunogen is administered to the food animals by distributingthe antibody material substantially uniformly throughout an animal feedand then supplying the resulting antibody-containing animal feed to thefood animals. When improved feed utilization is the objective, theantibody-containing animal feed is supplied to food animals during thenormal finishing schedule prior to slaughter. The substantial preventionof colonization of the targeted organism in the rumen or intestinaltract of the animal will ultimately permit elimination of the organismfrom the animal. This repression of colonization and elimination of thesubject organisms will permit a significant decrease in the wastefuldegradation of the dietary protein fed to food production animals. Inaddition, the resulting decrease in competition to the non-ammoniaproducing organisms will further enhance the most efficient utilizationof feed by the host. (Russell, USDA-ARS, May 1993.) When the objectiveis the elimination of disease-causing organisms from the meat of foodanimals, the antibody-containing feed is supplied sufficiently beforeslaughter to substantially prevent adherence of the target immunogen orhapten in the intestinal tract of the animal, and permit elimination ofthe immunogen or hapten from the animal.

[0031] The invention is directed particularly to the production of anadherence inhibitor specific to E. coli 0157:H7 and to the substantialreduction or elimination of gastric illnesses caused by this bacterium.The invention is described with particular reference to elimination ofillnesses caused by E. coli 0157.H7, but it is understood that theinvention is not so limited, but is equally applicable to elimination ofillnesses caused by the other colony-forming immunogens and haptens.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0032] The present invention is based on the concept of specificallyinhibiting the ability of colony-forming protein-wasting organisms, suchas P. anaerobius, C. sticklandii and C. aminophilum, and colony formingdisease-causing organisms, such as E. coli 0157:-H7, Listeria,Salmonella and Campylobacter, to adhere in the rumen or intestinaltracts of food animals and thus reduce their ability to multiply, growand colonize. Dietary modifications may be designed to make the rumenand intestinal tract less receptive to the organisms over the lifetimeof the animal. While the microbial inhibitor of the present inventionmay be administered at will by the producer, it is preferred forefficient animal feed utilization that a carefully determined andmanaged course of administration during the finishing period at thefeedlot level be scheduled and followed. Such a predetermined periodwhich takes advantage of the low dose, longer cumulative effect of theinhibitor and which is also easily integrated into current productionpractices will provide the most economically attractive rate of returnthrough improved animal performance.

[0033] For the elimination of disease-causing organisms the inhibitormay be administered either immediately pre-slaughter or over somesubstantial period of the lifetime of the animal. It is preferred that acarefully determined and managed mid-term period course ofadministration at the feedlot level be followed. As described, a setpre-slaughter period takes advantage of the low dose, longer cumulativeeffect, is easily integratable into current production practices and isthe most economical. It also allows the microorganism to naturallydisappear from the mud and manure on the outside of the animal, asignificant source of potential contamination at slaughter. Under thecurrent feeding system, food animal feed efficiency is enhanced throughthe use of ionophores such as monesin, a feed additive marketed underthe trade name Rumensin. These are a class of polyester antibioticsapproved for feed given to beef cattle and dairy heifers but notapproved for use with lactating diary cows. Most gram-positive organismsare non-specifically vulnerable to the ionophores, antibiotics which canalso be quite toxic to the host animal if used improperly. As theseantibiotics are not specific, many of the ruminal organisms required todigest the cellulose of ingested plant material may also be affected.The problem with carry over and the development of drug resistantstrains of organisms are also major concerns to the industry. The use ofbroad spectrum antibiotics has further drawbacks including vulnerabilityto human error, additional cost, consumer resistance and the like. Inaddition, the monensin type additive cannot be administered withcommonly used molasses based supplements.

[0034] Any organism that colonizes the rumen or alimentary tract of itshost must possess the capability of sticking or adhering to that surfacein order to multiply and grow. The specific organisms addressed by thisinvention are no exception to the rule. As other factors such as theneed of beneficial organisms for specific enzymes must also beconsidered, specific reagents are required to reduce the number oftargeted organisms in the rumen or intestinal tract while notinterfering with other normal flora. The organism inhibitor of thisinvention strongly interferes with adherence in a highly specific mannerand, on a cumulative basis, thereby prevents the targeted organisms frommultiplying, growing and colonizing. Through the vehicle of a simpledaily feed supplement, the product essentially supplies the host with anantibody preparation designed not to cure any disease in the animal butto specifically dislodge any resident bacteria in the rumen oralimentary tract and to prevent attachment of any newly introducednumbers of that same bacteria. The microbial inhibitor has no directeffect whatsoever on the ultimate food products and leaves absolutely noundesirable residue in the animal or in the ultimate food products. Inaddition, since the deleterious organisms are prevented frommultiplying, they will over time, for example the 120-day finishingperiod in the feedlot, disappear through natural degradation from thefeedlot environment helping to eliminate that significant potentialsource of recontamination. The inhibitor product itself can beclassified as a natural material of animal origin and as such can beused in almost any kind of feeding program. As the active ingredientsare completely natural, they will work well with most feeds and feedadditives including molasses based supplements.

[0035] All mammals and birds provide similar types of protection whichallow for an immediate immune response in their very young offspringuntil they too acquire the ability to make the antibodies forthemselves. More specifically called passive antibody protection, thisdefense mechanism is passed to the young of mammals through theplacenta, the mother's milk or through both. The young of birds,however, receive their passive antibody protection through the store ofantibodies placed in the eggs in which they develop from the embryonicstage. Birds, in particular, have the ability to “load up” their eggs asthey are formed, with a very large supply of antibodies concentratedmany fold over that which is present in the serum of the mother. Inaddition, avian antibodies are much more stable and resistant toinactivation through digestion than mammalian antibodies, especiallyunder adverse conditions. Once immunized the hen layers the unique IgYtypes immunoglobulins in the yolk while depositing the common chickenIgM and IgA immunoglobulins in the albumin. The albumin helps resistanceto the whole egg preparations and helps protect the avian antibodies.Furthermore, the large quantities of antibodies which are placed in eggsare much more exclusively those specific for the antigens to which themother has most recently been exposed to and challenged by. This allresults in the eggs of birds being a most ideal source for largequantities of economically produced, highly specific and stableantibodies. While the invention is illustrated by the use of chickens toproduce avian antibody, other fowl including turkeys, ducks, geese, etc.may be used.

[0036] Specifically, groups are obtained of young hen chickens typicallyRhode Island Reds, White Leghorns, sex-linked hybrid crosses or otherbreeds suited to large egg size, high volume egg production and ease ofhandling which are about to reach laying age, about 19 weeks forchickens, on a schedule predetermined by the amount and timing of finalproduct desired resulting in a steady continuous production stream.After a suitable period of isolation and acclimatization of about 2 to 4weeks, each group will enter into an inoculation program usingrehydrated proprietary preparations of specific antigens to which anantibody is desired. The antigens may be obtained from commercialsources such as the American Type Culture Collection (ATCC). The antigenmay be injected intramuscularly, but preferably injectedsub-cutaneously. In approximately four to five weeks, the average eggcollected will contain copious amounts of the desired specific antibodyin a readily usable and stable form. The chickens may be reinoculatedwith the targeted antigen throughout the egg laying period to maintainthe high antibody level.

[0037] Batches of eggs from predetermined groups of chickens arecracked, the contents are separated from the shells and mixed andpreferably pasteurized (to eliminate potential pathogenic microorganismfrom the chicken and thus reduce potential contamination of feed). Thetotal egg content is dried using standard commercial methods, such asspray drying using ambient or hot air up to 50° C. and tested todetermine overall titer or antibody level. The egg contents may be driedalone or on innocuous feed extenders such as dry soy or rice husks orthe like. Standard test procedures are used, such as ELISA, oragglutination, or the like. The typical batch is then blended withbatches from groups of chickens at other average production levelsresulting in a lot of standardized active ingredient. The dried eggantibody microbial inhibitor material may be stored and shipped oncarrier materials such as soy bean hulls, boluses and/or tablets.Dependent on the needs and specifications of the feed formulator and thefinal customer, the final antibody product may include some type ofinnocuous additive, such as dried whey or dried soy protein powder,dried soy or rice husks or the like for formulation with feed ration.One egg produced and processed by the above procedures will yield aproduct sufficiently active and stable to provide at least as many as350 to 700 daily doses of managed protection against specific microbialcolonization. This method provides for the first time, an economical,safe and effective means for controlling feed efficiency organisms inbeef cattle and dairy herds, and an economical, safe and effective meansfor controlling E. coli 0157:H7 and other illness-causing organisms incattle herds.

[0038] The present invention specifically addresses feed efficiency asit relates to beef cattle, and by extension dairy cattle and dairyherds, and to the problem of eliminating illness-causing organisms fromcattle. However, the concept of preventing microbial adherence has greateconomic potential for a number of diverse food safety and productionapplications. One such field of application is in feed and watertargeting specific undesirable microorganisms. An example of thisapplication would include products to actively inhibit pathogenic oreven spoilage microorganisms in animal feed formulated for chickens andother poultry. Another such field of application is as rinse aidingredients targeted to specific undesirable microorganisms. Examples ofthis application include products to actively dislodge pathogenic oreven spoilage microorganisms for use in solutions for spot cleaning andrinsing beef carcasses or for chilling poultry after they have beendressed.

[0039] The most successful colonizing microorganisms, bacteria, virusesand parasite, etc., have evolved a number of different types ofmolecules, referred to as “adherins,” on their surfaces which can verytightly stick to one or more types of specific molecules that are partof the host's various surfaces. The adhesion inhibitor is an avianantibody of extraordinarily high specific activity which can verytightly bind to, coat, cover and obliterate these adherins which attachthemselves to their hosts with a lock and key type of fit to very uniquechemical structures. In addition to this direct attack, components ofthe complement system included in most biological fluids, such as blood,lymph, saliva, tears and to some extent intestinal secretions, recognizean antibody attachment as triggers for their many types of defensiveactivities. Specific antibody attachment and coating combined with thevery likely mobilization of many other cellular defense systems,therefore, quickly culminates in the chemical inactivation andultimately the destruction of the targeted microorganism.

[0040] The invention is further illustrated by the following examples:

EXAMPLE 1: Selection of Egg Laying Avian Hens

[0041] The strain of egg laying hen may vary with needs and uses. Anyegg laying fowl hens may be immunized including chickens, turkeys,ducks, emus or any other fowl. The common strains of egg laying chickensare the preferred and are usually selected for the number of eggs laidper year, size of egg and ease of housing. Rhode Island Red, WhiteLeghorn and Red Sex Linked hybrids are the animals of choice based onegg size (large to ex-large, 50-65 gm) and were used for theimmunization schedules. The ease of handling the animals and the sizeand uniformity of the eggs along with the number of eggs laid per henper year were observed. Although any avian egg laying hen could be used,for cost and ease of use these chickens proved to work the best. The RedSex Linked hybrid gave the most uniformity and greater number of eggsper animal. These animals produce a large to extra-large grade of egg(50-65 gm) and up to 300 eggs a year per hen.

EXAMPLE 2: Preparation of Stock Culture

[0042] The American Type Culture Collection E. coli 0157:H7 Stock #43895was used as the model bacterium. The organism was isolated from rawhamburger and colonizes in cattle. The ATCC Method for rehydration ofthe stock was followed. The bacterium is rehydrated in 1.0 ml of TSBBroth (Tryptase Soy Broth, Becton Dickinson), transferred to 5 ml of TSBsterile broth and incubated overnight (approximately 18 hours) at 37° C.. Nice turbid growth was observed. This is used as stock as needed. Itwas streaked on Sorbitol-MacConkey Agar (Difco) for verification ofcolony production.

EXAMPLE 3: Preparation of H Antigens for Immunogens

[0043] The H antigens were selected for development into an immunogenfor immunizing the egg laying hens. Certain conditions are used tomaintain the optimum growth of the H antigen during culturing to giveadded concentrations for the prep. Veal Infusion Agar (VIS) and VealInfusion Broth (VIB, Becton Dickinson) is preferred for H antigenproduction. Stock TSB innoculated with VIB is incubated at 22° to 24° C.or room temperature for 18 hours. This stimulates flagella developmenton the bacteria. Flasks layered with VIA are inoculated with VIBculture. Good growth was seen after 22 hours. The product was harvestedafter 4 days. Flasks are combined by washing off the agar surface withDulbecco's PSB solution (pH 7.3-7.4). The products is collected intubes. Density is checked using spectrophotometer enumeration andMcFarland nephelometer standards. Approximately 3×10/12/ml in stock.Motility is checked with motility agar slant (Northeast LaboratoryServices). Stock is diluted to concentration of approximately 1×10⁹ perml in PBS and stirred for 1 hour at room temperature. The flagella isremoved from the outside of the bacteria. Supernatant is collected usingcentrifugation. Pellet of whole bacteria is separated from thesupernatant. Dry weight approximately 14.7 mg/ml is determined and thematerial is used as stock immunogen for H antigen. It is diluted to 1mg/ml in PBS and heated for 30 minutes at 60° to 70° C. . This helpskeep contamination down to a minimum. Thiogylcollate broth is inoculatedto check for growth and animals are inoculated with immunogen.

EXAMPLE 4: Preparation of 0 Antigen for Immunogens

[0044] Brain Heart Infusion (BFI, acumedia) is used to stimulate the 0antigens on the bacterium. Stock TSB innoculate BHI Broth is formed andincubated at 37° C. for 18 hours. This stimulates somatic antigendevelopment on the bacteria. Flasks containing BHI Broth are inoculatedwith BHI Broth culture. While stirring slowly, flasks are incubated at37° C. Good growth is seen after 22 hours. Flasks are combined and thematerial is harvested using centrifugation and sterile saline (0.9%) atapproximately 3000 rpm for 30 minutes. The harvest is collected intubes. Density is checked using spectrophotometer enumeration andMcFarland nephelometer standards. The material is diluted toapproximately 1×10⁹ per ml. Four percent (4%) sodium deoxycholate(Difco) solution is added as a 1:1 ratio with culture in 0.9% sterilesaline (Herzberg, 1972) and stirred for approximately 18 hours at roomtemperature (22° to 24° C.). The material is centrifuged to remove wholecells. Supernatant is used as stock for O antigen. Dry weight isdetermined at approximately 14.9 mg/ml. The product is diluted insterile PBS, pH 7.4 to 1 mg/ml for O Immunogen.

EXAMPLE 5: Preparation of WC Antigen for Immunogens

[0045] Tryptic Soy Broth (TSB, Northeast Laboratory Services) plus YeastExtract (BBL) is used for Whole Cell (WC) antigen production. TSB plusYeast Extract 0.6% Broth is inoculated with TSB Stock and incubated at37° C. for 18 hours. This stimulates somatic and other surface antigensto development on the bacteria. Flasks are inoculated with TSB withYeast Extract Broth. While stirring slowly, it is incubated at 37° C.Good growth is seen after 22 hours. The flasks are combined and theproduct is harvested using centrifugation at approximately 3000 rpm for30 minutes and collected in tubes. The product is resuspended in sterilePBS, pH 7.4. Density is checked using spectrophotometer enumeration andMcFarland nephelometer standards. Dry weight is approximately 19.7mg/ml. The product is diluted to approximately 2×10⁹ per ml or 2 mg/mldry weight, and 0.6% formaldehyde solution in PBS is added as a 1 :1ratio with culture and stirred for approximately 18 hours at roomtemperature (22° to 24° C.) to fix cells. Thiogylcollate broth isinoculated to check for growth and pH of preparation (pH 7-7.4) ischecked. The supernatant is used for WC antigen. The stock is diluted inPHS, pH 7.4 to 1 mg/ml for WC immunogen.

EXAMPLE 6: Preparation of A antigen for Immunogen

[0046] The Minca Medium is used for A antigen production. It is astandard medium for stimulating the pilii and related adherin antigens.Stock TSB Minca Medium Broth (Inf. Immun., February 1977, 676-678) isinoculated and incubated at 37° C. for 18 hours. This stimulatedadhesion antigen development on the bacteria. Flasks are inoculated withMinca Medium Broth and while stirring slowing is incubated at 37° C.Good growth is seen after 18 hours. The flasks are combined and theproduct is harvested using centrifugation at approximately 2500 rpm for30 minutes and collected in tubes. The pellet is resuspended in PBS andstirred with a stir bar for one hour at 22° to 24° C. (roomtemperature). This removes the flagella. The product is collected intubes and the pellet is resuspended in PBS and 0.01% Tween 20™,transferred to Waring Blender in cold (4° C.) at low speed for 30minutes. Density is checked using spectrophotometer enumeration andMcFarland nephelometer standards. The product is centrifuged to removewhole cells. The supernatant is used as stock for A antigen. It may beheated at 60° C. for 40 minutes to inactivate if needed. Gentamycin isadded at 50 μ/ml as preservative. Thioglycollate broth is inoculated tocheck for growth. Dry weight is determined at approximately 10.6 mg/ml.The product is diluted with PBS, pH 7.4 to 1 mg/ml for A immunogen.

EXAMPLE 7: Preparation of P Antigen for Immunogen

[0047] The Reinforced Clostridial Medium is used for P antigenproduction. It is a standard medium for stimulating adherence antigensfor Peptostreptococcus anaerobius. These cultures must be grown understrict anaerobic conditions. The stock culture is grown according toATCC for #49031. As with other organisms, subcultures are grown in smallamounts. Thioglycollate Media (Difco) is inoculated with the stock andincubated for 48 hours. Flasks are inoculated with ReinforcedClostridial Medium Broth. The medium is covered with a mixture ofanaerobic gas. Flasks are combined and the product is harvested usingcentrifugation at approximately 2500 rpm for 30 minutes, collected intubes and run at low speed for 30 minutes. Density is checked. Theproduct is centrifuged to remove whole cells. The supernatant is used asstock for P antigen. It is heated at 60° for 40 minutes to inactivate ifneeded. Dry weight is determined. Approximately 20.5 mg/ml. The productis diluted with PBS, pH 7.4 to 1 mg/ml for P immunogen.

EXAMPLE 8: Preparation of CS Antigen for Immunogen

[0048] The Reinforced Clostridial Medium is used for CS antigenproduction. It is a standard medium for stimulating adherence antigensfor Clostridium sticklandii. These cultures must be grown under strictanaerobic conditions. The stock culture is grown according to ATCC for#12662. As with other organisms, subcultures are grown in small amounts.Thioglycollate Media (Difco) is inoculated with the stock and incubatedfor 48 hours. Flasks are inoculated with Reinforced Clostridial MediumBroth. The medium is covered with a mixture of anaerobic gas. Flasks arecombined and the product is harvested using centrifugation atapproximately 2500 rpm for 30 minutes. The product is collected in tubesand spun at low speed for 30 minutes. Density is checked usingspectrophotometer enumeration and McFarland nephelometer standards. Theproduct is centrifuged to remove whole cells. The supernatant is used asstock for CS antigen. It is heated at 60° C. for 40 minutes toinactivate if needed. Dry weight is determined at approximately 22mg/ml. The product is diluted with PBS, pH 7.4 to 1 mg/ml for CSimmunogen.

EXAMPLE 9: Preparation for CA Antigen for Immunogen

[0049] The Reinforced Clostridial Medium is used for CA antigenproduction. It is a standard medium for stimulating adherence antigensfor Clostridium aminophilius. These cultures must be grown under strictanaerobic conditions. The stock culture is grown according to ATCC for#49906. As with other organisms, subcultures are grown in small amounts.Thioglycollate Media (Difco) is inoculated with the stock and incubatedfor 48 hours. Flasks are inoculated with Reinforced Clostridial MediumBroth. The medium is covered with a mixture of anaerobic gas. Flasks arecombined and the product is harvested using centrifugation atapproximately 2500 rpm for 30 minutes. The product is collected in tubesand spun at low speed for 30 minutes. Density is checked usingspectrophotometer enumeration and McFarland nephelometer standards. Theproduct is centrifuged to remove whole cells. The supernatant is used asstock for CA antigen. It is heated at 60° C. for 40 minutes toinactivate if needed. Dry weight is determined at approximately 20.5mg/ml. The product is diluted with PBS, pH 7.4 to 1 mg/ml for CAimmunogen.

EXAMPLE 10: Preparation of ELISA Plates Using H, O, WC and A Antigensfor Monitoring Antibodies in Eggs, Chickens and Feed

[0050] H, O, WC and A ELISA: Ninety-six well assay plate (flat bottomCostar®) were coated using 100 μl/ml with various concentration ofantigens (H, A, O, or WC or combination: 10 μg-200 μg/ml) in carbonatebuffer, ph 9.6. Plates were incubated between 22° to 37° C. for up to 18hours. The wells were aspirated to prevent cross-contamination. Theplates were blocked with 390 μl/well of 0.5% BSA and incubated at 37° C.for 1 hour. Plates were coated using alternative rows of positive ornegative for controls. Plates were rinsed one time with wash buffercontaining Tween™ 20. One hundred microliters per well of diluted sampleare added to wells in duplicate wells, and incubated at 37° C. for onehour. Goat anti-Chicken IgG conjugate with Horseradish peroxidase(Kirkegard and Perry Laboratories; 1:1000 to 1:3000) was added. Afterone hour incubation, the substrate (TMB, KPL) was added according tomanufacturer's instructions and the reaction is stopped after 10 minuteswith 0.1 M phosphoric acid. Optical densities of the wells weredetermined in Dynatech ELISA Reader at 450 nm and the information wasrecorded for further data analysis.

EXAMPLE 11: Analysis of Individual Eggs and Serum Over Time

[0051] Eggs were selected at various periods in the immunization periodfor monitoring antibody responses to the specific antigens. Selectedchickens were monitored at day 0 and continued on a monthly basis afterthe fourth month. The whole egg was collected from the shell and then a1 ml sample was taken. This sample was then extracted with buffer toanalyze the antibody content. The standard ELISAs for the H, O, WC and Aimmunogens were used for analysis. The negative readings were subtractedform the OD readings. Serum samples were collected from each animal twoweeks after the fourth immunogen injection.

[0052] The data given in the table below are examples of the resultsobtained over the first four months. Egg Sample Date H Chicken O ChickenWC Chicken A Chicken 1 day: After first 0.03 OD Neg 0.05 OD Neginjection 1 month 0.60 OD Neg 0.05 OD Neg 5 weeks 0.74 ND ND ND 2 months1.22 OD 1.11 OD 0.88 OD 0.79 OD 3 months 1.00 OD 1.4 OD  0.99 OD 1.4 OD 4 months 1.16 OD 1.4 OD  0.94 OD 1.22 OD Serum: 1 month 1.4 OD 0.91 OD1.17 OD 0.97 OD

EXAMPLE 12: Preparation of ELISA Plates Using P, CS and CA Antigens forMonitoring Antibodies in Eggs, Chickens and Feed

[0053] P, CS and CA ELISA: Ninety-six well assay plate (flat bottomCostar®) were coated using 100 μl/ml with various concentrations ofantigens (P, CS, CA or combination: 10 μl-200 μg/ml) in carbonatebuffer, pH 9.6. Plates were incubated between 22° to 37° C. for up to 18hours. The wells were aspirated to prevent cross-contamination. Theplates were blocked with 390 μl/well of 0.5% BSA and incubated at 37° C.for one hour. Plates were coated using alternative rows of positive ornegative for controls. Plates are rinsed one time with wash buffercontaining Tween™ 20. One hundred microliters per well of diluted sampleare added to wells in duplicate wells, and incubated at 37° C. for onehour. Goat anti-Chicken IgG conjugate with Horseradish peroxidase(Kirkegard and Perry Laboratories: 1:1000 to 1:3000) was added. Afterone hour incubation, the substrate (TMB, KPL) was added according tomanufacturer's instructions and the reaction is stopped after 10 minuteswith 0.1 M phosphoric acid. Optical densities of the wells weredetermined in Dynatech ELISA Reader at 450 nm and the information wasrecorded for further data analysis.

EXAMPLE 13: Immunization of Chicken with H Immunogen

[0054] Six selected egg laying hens, three White Leghorns and threeRhode Island Reds approximately 19 weeks old were injected with thestock H immunogen. Four injections (500 μg, 100 μg, 200 μg and 250 μg)were given one week apart. A serum sample was collected two weeks afterthe last initial injection. If boosters were needed, 100 jug was givenin each booster (every six months). Within four weeks, four out of sixhens produced excellent antibodies in the eggs. ELISA H readingsaveraged 1.00 OD for 1:10,000 dilution and 0.265 OD for 1:50,000.Leghorn hens did not do as well but all three Rhode Island Reds didwell. After six weeks the average ELISA H reading was 1.40 OD for1:20,000 dilution with all chickens responding.

EXAMPLE 14: Immunization of Chicken with O Immunogen

[0055] Six selected egg laying hens, six White Leghorns, approximately19 weeks old were injected with the stock 0 Immunogen. Four injections(500 μg, 100 μg, 200 μg and 250 μg) were given one week apart. A serumsample was collected two weeks after the last initial injection. Ifboosters were needed, 100 μg was given in each booster (every sixmonths). Within four weeks, five out of the six hens produced excellentantibodies in the eggs. ELISA 0 readings averaged 1.42 OD for 1:10,000dilution and 0.68 OD for 1:50,000. After six weeks the average ELISA 0reading was 1.15 OD for 1:20,000 dilution with still five chickensresponding.

EXAMPLE 15: Immunization of Chicken with WC Immunogen

[0056] Six selected egg laying hens, six Rhode Island Reds,approximately 19 weeks old were injected with the stock WC immunogen.Four injections (500 μg, 100 μg, 200 μg and 250 μg) were given one weekapart. A serum sample was collected two weeks after the last initialinjection. If boosters were needed, 100 μg was given in each booster(every six months). Within four weeks, four out of the six hens producedexcellent antibodies in the eggs. ELISA WC readings averaged 0.95 OD for1:10,000 dilution and 0.250 OD for 1:50,000. After six weeks the averageELISA WC reading was 0.95 OD for 1:20,000 dilution with still fivechickens responding.

EXAMPLE 16: Immunization of Chicken with A Immunogen

[0057] Six selected egg laying hens, six White Leghorns, approximately19 weeks old were injected with the stock A immunogen. Four injections(500 μg, 100 μg, 200 μg and 250 μg) were given one week apart. A serumsample was collected two weeks after the last initial injection. Ifboosters were needed, 100 μg were given in each booster (every sixmonths). Within four weeks, five out of the six hens produced excellentantibodies in the eggs. ELISA A readings averaged 1.40 OD for 1:10,000dilution and 0.576 OD for 1:50,000. After six weeks the average ELISA Areading was 1.15 OD for 1:20,000 dilution with still all chickensresponding.

EXAMPLE 17: Immunization of Chicken with P Immunogen

[0058] Six selected egg laying hens, White Leghorns, approximately 19weeks old were injected with the stock P immunogen. Four injections (500μg, 100 μg, 200 μg and 250 μg) were given one week apart. A serum samplewas collected two weeks after the last initial injection. If boosterswere needed, 100 μg were given in each booster (every six months).Within four weeks, five out of the six hens produced excellentantibodies in the eggs.

EXAMPLE 18: Immunization of Chicken with CS Immunogen

[0059] Six selected egg laying hens, White Leghorns, approximately 19weeks old were injected with the stock CS Immunogen. Four injections(500 μg, 100 μg, 200 μg and 250 μg) were given one week apart. A serumsample was collected two weeks after the last initial injection. Ifboosters were needed, 100 μg was given in each booster (every sixmonths). Within four weeks, all five out of six hens produced excellentantibodies in the eggs.

EXAMPLE 19: Immunization of Chicken with CA Immunogen

[0060] Six selected egg lay hens, Red Sex-Linked Hybrids, approximately19 weeks old were injected with the stock CA Immunogen. Four injections(500 μg, 100 μg, 200 μg and 250 μg) were given one week apart. A serumsample was collected two weeks after the last initial injection. Ifboosters were needed, 100 μg was given in each booster (every sixmonths). Within four weeks, all six hens produced excellent antibodiesin the eggs.

EXAMPLE 20: Preparation of Stock Production Whole Egg Reagents

[0061] Selected hens were combined from all four immunogen groups for E.coli 0157:H7 or three immunogen groups for anaerobes, to be used toproduce production batches of whole egg reagents. Sterling (U.S. Pat.No. 5,753,228) presents an excellent review of uses for the selection ofeggs and storage of the same. The eggs were randomized and shellremoved. The whole egg is mixed well and pasteurized using standardconditions (60° C. (140° F.) for 3.5 minutes) Charley, H. and C. Weaver,3rd Edition, Foods: a scientific approach, Merrill-Prentice Hall, p.350, 1998). Once pasteurized, samples were tested for activity and storeat 4° C. until dried or sprayed onto carriers. Samples of 250 μl wereanalyzed.

[0062] Examples of results for ELISAs are given:

[0063] Pasteurized Whole Egg: E. coli 0157:H7 Immunogen Dilution O.D. WO 500 0.532 WC 2500 0.113 H  500 0.466 H 2500 0.115 O  500 0.338 O 25000.128 A  500 0.588 A 2500 0.155

[0064] Pasteurized Whole Egg: Anaerobes Immunogen Dilution Batch #1Batch #2 Batch #3 CA 100 0.339 0.275 0.627 CA 500 0.104 0.296 0.201 P100 0.724 0.882 0.576 P 500 0.248 0.594 0.651 CS 100 0.457 0.268 0.650CS 500 0.304 0.143 0.476

EXAMPLE 21: Coating of Feed Additive Carriers

[0065] Although whole egg can be dispensed in water supplies, or in adried format as whole powdered egg, use of a carrier helps distributethe material in a uniform method. This makes it easier for mixing withstandards feeds. A number of carriers can be used to provide a vehicleas a feed additive as needed. Soy hulls in crude, refined and peltedformat, rice hulls, corn, cottonseed hulls, distilled dried grains, beetpulp or any other. The production pasteurized whole egg prep is coatedonto the carrier and either fed directly to the animals or dried to10-15% moisture. Approximately 1000 ml of whole, pasteurized egg issprayed on 50 lbs of pelleted soybean hulls. The preferred carrier forcattle is pelleted soybean hulls while for young swine the fines frompelleted soybean hulls. The feed additive is mixed with the standardanimal feed. The preferred level is 10-15 lbs of feed additive to 2000lbs of animal feed.

EXAMPLE 22: Analysis of Feed Additive Samples After Coating withReagents

[0066] Samples were collected from batches of feed additive after theywere coated on to the carriers. The samples were analyzed and theresults are as follows: Product Name Moisture % Protein % Fat % Fiber,crude % Crude Soybean 11.59 26.76 9.10 18.63 Hulls, uncoated CAMAS EYE12.35 25.67 8.26 19.46 0157 Crude soybean Hulls CAMAS EYE * 12.06 24.899.92 20.38 Control Crude Soybean hulls Soybean Pellets 11.65  9.89 2.4333.47 uncoated CAMAS EYE 12.37 10.19 2.57 33.12 Efficiency Pellets

EXAMPLE 23: Analysis of Production Eggs Over Time—E. coli 0157:H7

[0067] Samples of the whole egg preparations were analyzed using theELISA systems for H, O, WC and A immunogens to monitor activity overtime after the initial immunization schedule was completed. Selectedanimals from each group were placed into the production group. Theaverage ELISA OD readings (negative subtracted) for the fourth throughthe sixth months are given in the table below. The eggs were sampledusing 250 μl of the whole eggs and diluted 1:500 and 1:2,500 in PBSbuffer and then run in the appropriate ELISA to determine the average ODreading at each dilution. The negative control readings are subtractedfrom each reading. The immunogens showed different responses in animalsalong with good specificity. The A immunogen gave the best responses inthese tests. Data for these immunogens over time is given below:Immuogen Fourth Month Fifth Month Six Month H: 1:500 0.388 0.848 0.7181:2500 0.085 0.237 0.195 O: 1:500 0.593 0.792 0.704 1:2500 0.147 0.2940.184 WC: 1:500 0.398 0.730 0.578 1:2500 0.062 0.273 0.130 A: 1:5000.700 1.014 0.909 1:2500 0.102 0.305 0.224

EXAMPLE 24: Analysis of Production Eggs Over Time—Feed Efficiency

[0068] Samples of whole egg preparations were analyzed using the ELISAsystems for P, CS and CA immunogens to monitor activity over time afterthe initial immunization schedule was completed. Selected animals fromeach group were placed into the production group. The average ELISA ODreadings for the fourth through the sixth months are given in the tablebelow. The eggs were sampled using 250 μl of the whole eggs and diluted1:500 and 1:2,500 in PBS buffer and then run in appropriate ELISA todetermine the average OD reading at each dilution. The negative controlreadings are subtracted from each reading. The immunogens showeddifferent responses in the animals along with good specificity. ImmuogenFourth Month Fifth Month Six Month P: 1:500 1.182 OD 1.128 OD 0.942 OD1:2500 0.785 OD 0.489 OD 0.343 OD CS: 1:500 0.843 OD 0.989 OD 0.582 OD1:2500 0.318 OD 0.356 OD 0.187 OD CA: 1:500 1.156 OD 1.087 OD 0.998 OD1:2500 0.409 OD 0.282 OD 0.507 OD

EXAMPLE 25: Analysis of Feed Additives for Antibody Activity—E. coli0157:H7

[0069] Samples of the coated hulls were analyzed using the ELISA systemsfor H, O, WC and A immunogens to monitor activity after pasteurizing,spraying, drying and storage. Good antibody response was recorded afterthe processing of the production whole egg batches and drying on crudesoybean hulls. Data for two batches is given below: Batch: Coated WC H OA immu- Hulls Immunogen Immunogen Immunogen nogen Batch #1 1:10 0.673 OD1.103 OD 1.105 OD 1.299 OD 1:100 0.106 OD 0.236 OD 0.229 OD 0.302 ODBatch #2 1:10 1.174 OD 1.291 OD 1.180 OD 1.224 OD 1:100 0.177 OD 0.396OD 0.327 OD 0.458 OD

EXAMPLE 26: Analysis of Feed Additives for Antibody Activity—FeedEfficiency

[0070] Samples of the coated hulls were analyzed using the ELISA systemsfor P, CS and CA immunogens to monitor activity after pasteurizing,spraying, drying and storage. Good antibody response was recorded afterthe processing of the production whole egg batches and drying on crudesoybean hulls. One gram samples of the 15 lbs of coated hulls wereextracted and analyzed. Data for three batches is given in the tablebelow: Batch: Coated Hulls P Immunogen CS Immunogen CA Immunogen Batch#1 1:100 0.067 OD 0.289 OD 0.051 OD 1:500 0.057 OD 0.131 OD 0.037 ODBatch #2 1:100 0.028 OD 0.039 OD 0.095 OD 1:500 0.049 OD 0.015 OD 0.021OD Batch #3 1:100 0.046 OD 0.115 OD 0.136 OD 1:500 0.012 OD 0.055 OD0.012 OD

EXAMPLE 27: Recovery of Active Antibody and Egg Protein After Feed Mix

[0071] Bags of coated soybean refined hulls were coated with theproduction whole egg reagent containing anti-E. coli 0157:H7 adherenceinhibitors. One bag of feed additive (15 lbs) was added to 2000 lbs ofstandard cattle feed. Control feed additive was produced with whole eggsfrom free ranging chickens. Soybean hulls were coated with thispreparation and mixed as the test feed additive containing the specificantibodies. Samples of the mixed feed were collected and analyzed foractive antibody to the ELISA WC immunogen as well as commercial ELISAfor detecting egg protein in food (Vertatox® Quantitative Egg AllergenTest, Neogen). The data is given in the chart below for two batches offeed ration. Mixed Feed First Batch Second Batch Test Feed-Additive:0.172 OD 0.112 OD 1:6000 0.009 OD 0.036 1:12000 Control Feed-No 0.049Neg. Additive 0.005 Neg. 1:6000 1:12000 Test Feed-Additive: 0.958 OD 17ppm 1.268 OD > 20 ppm Egg Protein Control Feed-No 0.800 OD 15 ppm 1.050OD 20 ppm Additive: Egg Protein

EXAMPLE 28: Feeding of Cattle

[0072] Two groups of cattle were fed either the E. coli 0157:H7 feedadditive (coated onto refined soybean hulls) or control feed additive(coated with control eggs and no specific adherence inhibitors). Theanimals were fed at a rate of 15 lbs of feed additive per 2000 lbs offeed. They averaged 10 lbs per animal per day. Animals weighedapproximately 1000 lbs when they started and over 1400 lbs when sent tomarket. All animals looked very healthy with the test animals eatingmore feed during the 87 days. Five of the test animals were positiveduring the start of the experiment for E. coli 0157:H7 and only one ofthe control animals. Within 30 days on feed additive all test animalswere negative for E. coli 0157:H7 and stayed negative for threeconsecutive samples over a 30-day period. Standard protocols werefollowed for sampling. All animals were ear-tagged and placed inseparate pens. Animals were sampled on a weekly basis for the firstmonth and then bi-weekly after that until shipped to market. Grabsamples were taken from the rectum and placed into sterile labeled bags.All samples were held on ice until processed in the lab. All sampleswere processed within four hours of collection each day. The fecalsamples were diluted with TSB with 0.6% yeast extract. Dilutions of themixture were streaked into Sorbitol-MacConkey's agar with or withoutcefixime-tellurite supplement (Dynal®). Colorless colonies are pickedfor further testing. A latex agglutination test was used to identify E.coli serogroup 0157 (Oxoid dry Spot™ E. coli 0157). If positive, thenindividual colonies were selected for further isolation on SMC agarstreak plates. Isolated colonies were run on the commercial EIA for EHE. coli 0157 (Binax, NOW® EH E. coli 0157). Biochemical confirmation canbe done with API-20E (Analytab Products). (Appl. Environ. Microbiol.,62(7) 2567-2570, 1966; J. Clin. Micro. 36(10): 3112, 1998.)

[0073] One of the most startling and distressing characteristics of E.coli 0157.H7 is the small number of microorganisms necessary to producecases of human illness. By way of example, at least 10,000 of the morevirulent Salmonella serotypes but as few as ten E. coli 0157:H7 arerequired to cause a person to become symptomatic. Therefore, one animalhosting or externally contaminated with the microorganism can, whenslaughtered, affect as much as 16 tons of ground beef to the extent thata single helping of the product could result in illness if improperlyprepared. Although the probability of any one animal hosting themicroorganism at any one time is low, the probability of its presence inany one particular feedlot is high.

[0074] There are presently three different methods for protecting theconsumer from the E. coli 0157:H7 threat which have been officiallyrecognized. The three methods are (1) thorough cooking, (2) steampasteurization and (3) irradiation, all of which have specificdrawbacks, including human and mechanical error, cost, consumerresistance, and the like.

[0075] Any microorganism which colonizes the alimentary tract of itshost must possess the capability of sticking or adhering to that surfacein order to multiply. E. coli 0157:H7 is no exception to this rule. Theadherence inhibitor of this invention strongly interferes with adherenceand, on a cumulative basis, thereby prevents the specific targetedmicroorganism from colonizing and multiplying. Through the vehicle of asimple daily feed additive, the product essentially supplies the hostwith a specific antibody preparation designed not to cure any disease inthe animal (cattle are essentially unaffected by E. coli 0157.H7 beingonly transitory hosts) but merely to dislodge any resident bacteria andto prevent the attachment of any newly introduced bacteria in thealimentary tract. The adherence inhibitor has no direct effect on thehost itself, leaves absolutely no undesirable residue in the animals andthus has no effect whatsoever on the ultimate food products. Inaddition, since the microorganism is prevented from multiplying, it willover time (for example the 120 day finishing period in the feedlot)disappear through natural degradation from the mud and manure coatingthe animal, eliminating this significant potential source ofcontamination at slaughter. Properly managed, the risk of crosscontaminating other food sources through feedlot runoff or by theapplication of manure as fertilizer is also essentially eliminated.

[0076] It is apparent that many modifications and variations of thisinvention as hereinbefore set forth may be made without departing fromthe spirit and scope thereof. The specific embodiments described aregiven by way of example only and the invention is limited only by theterms of the appended claims.

1. A method for the production of a microbial adherence inhibitor foradministration to food animals to substantially prevent the adherence oftargeted colony-forming immunogens in the rumen or intestinal tracts ofsaid food animals, which method comprises: A. Inoculating female birds,in or about to reach their egg laying age, with the particular targetedcolony-forming immunogen; B. Allowing a period of time sufficient topermit the production in the bird of antibody to the targeted immunogen;C. Harvesting the eggs laid by the birds; D. Separating theantibody-containing contents of said eggs from the shells; and E. Dryingsaid separated antibody-containing contents of said eggs.
 2. The methodaccording to claim 1 wherein: said colony-forming immunogen is one knownto decrease an animal's ability to utilize dietary protein.
 3. Themethod according to claim 2 wherein: said colony-forming immunogen isfrom the class consisting of P. anaerobius, C. sticklandii and C.aminophilium.
 4. The method according to claim 1 wherein: saidcolony-forming immunogen is one known to cause food borne illness inhumans.
 5. The method according to claim 4 wherein: said colony-formingimmunogen is from the class consisting of E. coli, Listeria, Salmonellaand Campylobacter.
 6. The method of claim 1 including: providing a drycarrier material, said drying of the separated antibody-containingcontents of said eggs is achieved by coating the dry carrier materialwith the separated antibody-containing contents of said eggs.
 7. Themethod of claim 6 wherein: providing a dry feed carrier material from agroup of materials including soybean hulls, rice hulls, corn, cottonseedhulls, distilled dried grains and beet pulp.
 8. A method for theproduction of a microbial adherence inhibitor for administration to foodanimals to substantially prevent the adherence of a colony-formingimmunogen in the rumen or intestinal tracts of said food animals, saidimmunogen is P antigen from P. anaerobius, which method comprises: A.Inoculating female birds, in or about to reach their egg laying age,with P antigen from P. anaerobius; B. Allowing a period of time topermit the production in the birds and eggs laid by the birds ofantibody to P antigen from P. anaerobius; C. Harvesting the eggs laid bythe birds; D. Separating the antibody-containing contents of saidharvested eggs from the egg shells; and E. Drying saidantibody-containing contents.
 9. The method of claim 8 including:providing a dry carrier material, said drying of the separatedantibody-containing contents of said eggs is achieved by coating the drycarrier material with the separated antibody-containing contents of saideggs.
 10. The method of claim 9 wherein: providing a dry feed carriermaterial from a group of materials including soybean hulls, rice hulls,corn, cottonseed hulls, distilled dried grains and beet pulp.
 11. Amethod for the production of a microbial adherence inhibitor foradministration to food animals to substantially prevent the adherence ofa colony-forming immunogen in the rumen or intestinal tracts of saidfood animals, said immunogen is CS antigen from C. sticklandii, saidmethod comprising: A. Inoculating female birds, in or about to reachtheir egg laying age, with CS antigen from C. sticklandii; B. Allowing aperiod of time to permit the production in the birds and eggs laid bythe birds of antibody to CS antigen from C. sticklandii; C. Harvestingthe eggs laid by the birds; D. Separating the antibody-containingcontents of said harvested eggs from the egg shells; and E. Drying saidantibody-containing contents.
 12. The method of claim 11 including:providing a dry carrier material, said drying of the separatedantibody-containing contents of said eggs is achieved by coating the drycarrier material with the separated antibody-containing contents of saideggs.
 13. The method of claim 12 wherein: providing a dry feed carriermaterial from a group of materials including soybean hulls, rice hulls,corn, cottonseed hulls, distilled dried grains and beet pulp.
 14. Amethod for the production of a microbial adherence inhibitor foradministration to food animals to substantially prevent the adherence ofa colony-forming immunogen in the rumen or intestinal tracts of saidfood animals, said immunogen is CA antigen from C. aminophilium, saidmethod comprising: A. Inoculating female birds, in or about to reachtheir egg laying age, with CA antigen from C. aminophilium; B. Allowinga period of time to permit the production in the birds and eggs laid bythe birds of antibody to CA antigen from C. aminophilium; C. Harvestingthe eggs laid by the birds; D. Separating the antibody-containingcontents of said harvested eggs from the egg shells; and E. Drying saidantibody-containing contents.
 15. The method of claim 14 including:providing a dry carrier material, said drying of the separatedantibody-containing contents of said eggs is achieved by coating the drycarrier material with the separated antibody-containing contents of saideggs.
 16. The method of claim 15 wherein: providing a dry feed carriermaterial from a group of materials including soybean hulls, rice hulls,corn, cottonseed hulls, distilled dried grains and beet pulp.
 17. Amethod for the production of a microbial adherence inhibitor foradministration to food animals to substantially prevent the adherence ofa colony-forming immunogen in the rumen or intestinal tracts of saidfood animals, said immunogen is E. coli antigen from E. coli, saidmethod comprising: A. Inoculating female birds, in or about to reachtheir egg laying age, with the E. coli colony-forming immunogen; B.After a period of time to permit the production in the birds of antibodyto the E. coli immunogen, harvesting the eggs laid by the birds; C.Separating the antibody-containing contents of said harvested eggs fromthe shells; and D. Drying said separated egg antibody adherenceinhibiting material.
 18. The method of claim 17 including: providing adry carrier material, said drying of the separated antibody-containingcontents of said eggs is achieved by coating the dry carrier materialwith the separated antibody-containing contents of said eggs.
 19. Themethod of claim 18 wherein: providing a dry feed carrier material from agroup of materials including soybean hulls, rice hulls, corn, cottonseedhulls, distilled dried grains and beet pulp.
 20. A method for theproduction of a microbial adherence inhibitor for administration to foodanimals to substantially prevent the adherence of a colony-formingimmunogen in the rumen or intestinal tracts of said food animals, saidimmunogen is Listeria antigen from Listeria, said method comprising: A.Inoculating female birds, in or about to reach their egg laying age,with the Listeria colony-forming immunogen; B. After a period of time topermit the production in the birds of antibody to the Listeriaimmunogen, harvesting the eggs laid by the birds; C. Separating theantibody-containing contents of said harvested eggs from the shells; andD. Drying said separated egg antibody adherence inhibiting material. 21.The method of claim 20 including: providing a dry carrier material, saiddrying of the separated antibody-containing contents of said eggs isachieved by coating the dry carrier material with the separatedantibody-containing contents of said eggs.
 22. The method of claim 21wherein: providing a dry feed carrier material from a group of materialsincluding soybean hulls, rice hulls, corn, cottonseed hulls, distilleddried grains and beet pulp.
 23. A method for the production of amicrobial adherence inhibitor for administration to food animals tosubstantially prevent the adherence of a colony-forming immunogen in therumen or intestinal tracts of said food animals, said immunogen isSalmonella antigen from Salmonella, said method comprising: A.Inoculating female birds, in or about to reach their egg laying age,with the Salmonella colony-forming immunogen; B. After a period of timeto permit the production in the birds of antibody to the Salmonellaimmunogen, harvesting the eggs laid by the birds; C. Separating theantibody-containing contents of said harvested eggs from the shells; andD. Drying said separated egg antibody adherence inhibiting material. 24.The method of claim 23 including: providing a dry carrier material, saiddrying of the separated antibody-containing contents of said eggs isachieved by coating the dry carrier material with the separatedantibody-containing contents of said eggs.
 25. The method of claim 24wherein: providing a dry feed carrier material from a group of materialsincluding soybean hulls, rice hulls, corn, cottonseed hulls, distilleddried grains and beet pulp.
 26. A method for the production of amicrobial adherence inhibitor for administration to food animals tosubstantially prevent the adherence of a colony-forming immunogen in therumen or intestinal tracts of said food animals, said immunogen isCampylobacter antigen from Campylobacter, said method comprising: A.Inoculating female birds, in or about to reach their egg laying age,with the Campylobacter colony-forming immunogen; B. After a period oftime to permit the production in the birds of antibody to theCampylobacter immunogen, harvesting the eggs laid by the birds; C.Separating the antibody-containing contents of said harvested eggs fromthe shells; and D. Drying said separated egg antibody adherenceinhibiting material.
 27. The method of claim 26 including: providing adry carrier material, said drying of the separated antibody-containingcontents of said eggs is achieved by coating the dry carrier materialwith the separated antibody-containing contents of said eggs.
 28. Themethod of claim 27 wherein: providing a dry feed carrier material from agroup of materials including soybean hulls, rice hulls, corn, cottonseedhulls, distilled dried grains and beet pulp.
 29. A method for theproduction of a microbial adherence inhibitor for administration to foodanimals to substantially prevent the adherence of targetedcolony-forming immunogens in the rumen or intestinal tracts of said foodanimals, which method comprises: A. Inoculating female birds, in orabout to reach their egg laying age, with the particular targetedcolony-forming immunogen; B. Allowing a period of time sufficient topermit the production in the bird of antibody to the targeted immunogen;C. Harvesting the eggs laid by the birds; D. Separating theantibody-containing contents of said eggs from the shells; E. Providinga dry carrier material; and F. Coating said dry carrier material withthe antibody-containing contents of said eggs.
 30. The method of claim29 wherein: providing a dry feed carrier material from a group ofmaterials including soybean hulls, rice hulls, corn, cottonseed hulls,distilled dried grains and beet pulp.